Founded in 1789, the quaint village of Aurora looks like something out of a fairytale, and all five of The Inns of Aurora fit right in, especially The Aurora Inn. Built in 1833 by Colonel E.B. Morgan, the stately brick Federal-style manor overlooks Cayuga Lake and adds a bit of antique luxury to the small, historical town.
The inn received an overhaul in 2003, modernizing the space while keeping true to its rich past. The décor centers around classic colonial style, with bold hues of red and yellow with some floral wallpaper and plenty of dark-wood highlights thrown in. And, though you can't see it, charred beams reside under the roof as a mark of luck after the inn narrowly escaped burning down during a town fire in 1919.
When you aren’t relaxing in your room, make use of the slew of complimentary perks on offer to all guests of The Inns of Aurora. Borrow one of the art kits or bicycles or try some stargazing or one of the walking tours.
- While the outside of the inn exudes historic charm, inside you can enjoy modern amenities and services. This includes strongly brewed local coffee and housemade granola bars in the morning, and a lakeside fire pit with s’mores in the evening.
- A private set of stairs leads to the Premier Suite on the top floor of the three-story building. Rest in crisp Frette linens on the king-sized bed, dip into the large marble bath or lounge in the comfortable sitting area. Many of the guest rooms at the luxury inn feature a balcony with rocking chairs and a stunning lake view.
- For brunch or dinner, visit the on-property restaurant 1833 Kitchen & Bar, named after the year the inn was built. The kitchen is overseen by executive chef Eric Lamphere, who dishes out an eclectic new American menu featuring five-spice-rubbed duck breast, braised short rib with cacao nibs, cured salmon tartare with fennel and blood orange, seafood chowder and more. Sit at one of the cozy tables for two or grab a seat at the beautiful horseshoe-shaped bar.
- Book a complimentary kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board and explore Cayuga Lake on your own or with a guide. Afterward, take it easy in a lakeside Adirondack chair with a good novel and bottle of wine.
- Unwind at The Spa at the Inns of Aurora. This multi-room facility features hydrotherapy and Ayurveda-inspired treatments provided by Rasa Spa. Reserve a massage, facial and body service, or just get a day pass and enjoy the water features and café.
- Cayuga Lake is one of many bodies of water making up the Fingers Lakes. In the summer and fall, try lake fishing, and in the colder months, venture out on ice-fishing trips with outfitters. It's also good for swimming in the summer, though water shoes are recommended.
- Visit the Morgan Opera House, housed inside a restored Victorian building just a minute’s walk from the luxury inn. It has the original raked stage with pressed tin proscenium, leaded glass windows and beautifully crafted woodwork. Hear the great acoustics during a show.
- The Finger Lakes region is known for wines and craft beer. Take a tour of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail — the country’s oldest wine trail — or the Finger Lakes Beer Trail to sample the local pours.
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